Port Jefferson Middle School and Earl L. Vandermeulen High School hosted a successful Inclusivity Event aimed at promoting understanding and empathy within the school community. Organized by the support staff at both schools and in collaboration with high school volunteers and SEPTA, the event proved to be an enriching experience for all involved.
The Inclusivity Event, generously supported by a grant from the Royal Educational Foundation, was designed to develop an understanding of individuals with various disabilities and foster inclusivity throughout the school community. During the event, the middle school students engaged in a series of activities meticulously crafted to simulate the challenges faced by individuals with diverse needs, including those related to vision, hearing, motor skills, and learning.
Dr. Jodi Cahill, Director of Special Education expressed her gratitude to all involved: “We are incredibly thankful for the support from the Royal Educational Foundation and the dedication of our staff, volunteers, and SEPTA members. Special thanks to the staff from the special education department, high school psychologist, Ms. Kristen Wendel, and speech teacher, Ms. Stacia Schoen for spearheading this initiative and working tirelessly to make it all possible. This event has been instrumental in fostering a culture of empathy and understanding with our school community, and we look forward to building upon this foundation in the future.
With the support of the grant, schools were able to procure the necessary supplies and resources to ensure the success of the event. Activities were carefully curated to provide students and teachers with an immersive experience, allowing them to learn about and emphasize the daily challenges encountered by individuals with diverse needs in a classroom setting.
The event facilitators, comprised of staff, high school volunteers, and SEPTA members, guided participants through each activity, offering insights into how they relate to different needs. These activities were complemented by informative discussions, fostering empathetic dialogues and promoting inclusive mindsets among students and staff alike.
Date Added: 5/1/2024